I rise out of bed in a zombie like trance. I fumble out of my bed and start to find my clothes for the day. Slowly but surely I get dressed and reluctantly grab my suitcase. My mom urges me to finish getting ready. Despite my brain’s seemingly lack of oxygen, butterflies fill my stomach. I can’t believe this is really happening.

My club volleyball team and I were going to the Big South tournament in Atlanta, Georgia. This was going to my first time flying on a plane. The whole car ride to the airport I kept wondering whether I was going to love it or hate it. Even though my family has taken long trips, for what seemed like it went across the entire country, they have always been in the car. I have always wanted to fly, but due to the heavy price tag of a plane ticket we never had. Unfortunately, I had to endure being crammed in the back seat of a car for hours on end. I was hoping that flying would be a more pleasant experience.

When we arrive at the airport, it is only a short journey to where we check in our luggage and get our tickets. My anticipation is building. We walk to where the entryway is to our plane. A few of my teammates are already there, and I sit down and join them. After about an hour, it’s time to get on the plane. My anticipation has reached its peak, and I feel like I am going to burst from excitement. I stare at these new surroundings as I walk down the tunnel and onto the plane.

The plane is about to take off and the moment I have been anticipating is finally almost here. The plane gains speed and an exhilarating feeling goes through my body. We are off the ground; flying. As I stare out the window, I think about how I still cannot believe I am doing this. This feeling is unforgettable, and I will never forget my first time flying.